The Montreal Canadiens and Carolina Hurricanes are set to battle in the Eastern Conference finals of the 2026 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs. The series schedule was announced on Tuesday, following Montreal's dramatic Game 7 overtime victory over the Buffalo Sabres on Monday night.
Series Schedule
The best-of-seven series begins on Thursday, May 21, in Montreal. Game 2 will be held on Saturday, May 23, also at the Bell Centre. The series then shifts to Raleigh for Game 3 on Tuesday, May 26, and Game 4 on Thursday, May 28. If necessary, Game 5 will be back in Montreal on Saturday, May 30, Game 6 in Raleigh on Monday, June 1, and Game 7 in Montreal on Wednesday, June 3.
Canadiens' Path
Montreal advanced after a thrilling 4-3 overtime win in Game 7 against the Buffalo Sabres. Goaltender Jakub Dobes made 35 saves and was instrumental in the victory. The Canadiens are seeking their first Stanley Cup Final appearance since 2021.
Hurricanes' Path
Carolina earned a first-round bye after finishing with the best record in the Eastern Conference. They then defeated the New York Islanders in five games in the second round. The Hurricanes are aiming for their first Stanley Cup since 2006.
Both teams boast strong offensive depth and solid goaltending, promising a highly competitive series. Fans can expect intense action as these two Original Six-era rivals clash for a spot in the Stanley Cup Final.
